Lucid Dream Software Announces Release of OnTimeProof

Tuesday, August 28, 2001

Press release from the issuing company

HOFFMAN ESTATES, August 27, 2001 - Lucid Dream Software recently introduced a fully integrated system for Heidelberg's Delta Rip™ that seamlessly and automatically extends the ROOM workflow to the world of remote virtual proofing. OnTimeProof™ gives Heidelberg Delta RIP users a solution that both converts ripped Delta Documents™ to composite/separated JPEG and low resolution (up to 400 dpi) PDF file formats, and then manages a Web-based interface for notifying, delivering and managing the remote proofing process. OnTimeProof will be exhibited at Print 01 in the Heidelberg's booth #1000A in September.
"OnTimeProof makes it possible for Delta users to automatically do database-managed, online remote virtual proofing from their ripped Delta List™ files," says David Lewis, president, Lucid Dream. "Delta users can now send ripped, trapped jobs for almost instantaneous virtual proofing to any facility with Web browser capabilities."
With OnTimeProof, job numbers are entered into the system using a Web browser and administrative logins. The job numbers are then assigned to customer accounts. Once job numbers are assigned, the jobs are sent for normal Delta production. Lucid's unique and specialized pixel-based conversion takes data straight from the ripped and trapped Delta List and converts it into common web file formats for easy viewing using standard tools.
"OnTimeProof is well-suited to our needs," says Dick Johnson, director of prepress technology, Bowne & Co., Inc., a global leader in managing and disseminating information. "We have a modified Delta ROOM workflow and use OnTimeProof to deliver soft proofs throughout our organization, which includes 65 sites in three different time zones. Quick and convenient, OnTimeProof streamlines workflow, speeds turnaround, and cuts costs. And it's easy to use and install."
Each job processed using the Delta RIP is queried to see if a remote proof needs to be sent to the customer. If the job ticket number indicates that a virtual proof is required, OnTimeProof creates a composite/separated JPEG and a low resolution (up to 400 dpi) PDF file. These files are then sent to the Web server and logged into the database for availability over the Internet, an e-mail message is automatically sent to customers notifying them that the files are ready for remote access. Customers can then view jobs, make annotations, and send notes and attachments, which are logged into the job record and notified to production.
"OnTimeProof has worked exceptionally well since we installed it and has generated overwhelmingly positive responses from customers," says Todd Shelhorse, prepress coordinator, Mid Atlantic Printers Limited. "The online proofing solution is integrated with our Delta ROOM workflow so that customers get to see a proof after it's been ripped and trapped. A great service to offer any customer, OnTimeProof not only speeds review and approval, it shortens turnaround, automates workflow, and cuts production errors and costs."
OnTimeProof consists of a complete Web interface with an SQL database that integrates easily into a new or existing Web site, and a Delta interface that manages the conversion of final Delta jobs into remote view files and then uploads them to a Web site. Running on the same workstation as the Delta RIP, OnTimeProof is automatically called by the Delta PrintManager to provide immediate conversion of Delta jobs.
OnTimeProof also offers several features for communicating changes back and forth between a customer and the home facility operator. Once the customer has approved the changes, the file can be automatically directed to multiple output choices by the home facility such as imposition and platemaking.
OnTimeProof is compatible with Lucid Dream's other digital file library add-on modules - TIFF/ITflow, DCSflow, PDFflow, PRINTflow - to create a P-1 compliant TIFF/IT, DCS2, 1.3 PDF, and PS file formats for full resolution file transfer. OnTimeProof seamlessly interfaces with RealTime Image™ to give a powerful automated Delta connection.
OnTimeProof is available immediately from Lucid Dream Software. Interested resellers and consultants are welcome to inquire about becoming a Lucid Dream Software dealer.
About Lucid Dream Software
Lucid Dream Software, Inc. is an Illinois-based corporation providing industry-leading, vertical market software tools and solutions for the pre-press and printing industries both in the retail market with their line of Delta additions, and the OEM market for several industry-leading prepress manufacturers.
For more information about Lucid Dream products, contact Lucid Dream Software, 4570 Topaz Drive, Hoffman Estates, IL 60195. Tel: 847-202-8424. Fax: 847-202-9770. Or visit the company's Web site at www.luciddream.com. Or see us a Print 01 in the Heidelberg booth #1000A in September.